Posted by Jayme Blaschke
University News Service
June 26, 2007

Texas State University student John Sutterfield, along with past and current presidents  of the Texas State Students in Free Enterprise (SIFE) team Ashley Braine and Angela Bertero, have completed an interactive computer game to teach high school and college students the principles of obtaining funding for entrepreneurial ventures.

In July 2007, the project will be judged by SIFE and the Goldman Sachs Foundation for a chance to participate in the Goldman Sachs Capital Markets Day held in New York City.  Only three universities from Europe, the United States and Asia, respectively, will be selected to attend the event.

The project entitled “Treasure Hunt” teaches the steps an entrepreneur takes in order to receive funding to begin a new business or expand an existing business, analytical and problem-solving skills and the vocabulary necessary to understand the intricacies associated with different funding sources.  The learning experience includes a basic understanding of the different risks and rewards various entrepreneurs face in their respective business endeavors.  The interactive CD-ROM game teaches students the financial management skills necessary to achieve financial independence, a requirement given by SIFE headquarters. 

The project is being taught at Westwood High School in Round Rock, Stony Point High School in Pflugerville, Sandra Day O’Conner High School in Helotes, the Gary Job Corps Center in San Marcos and to high school members of the Boys and Girls Club in Austin.

SIFE is a global, non-profit organization that is literally changing the world through highly dedicated student teams on more than 1600 university campuses in 40 countries. SIFE offers these students the opportunity to develop leadership, teamwork and communication skills through learning, practicing and teaching the principles of free enterprise, thereby improving the standard of living for millions in the process. Texas State SIFE is one of the leading collegiate teams within the United States. Texas State SIFE is the top money winner in Special Competitions and was the International Champion in 2000.

For more information, contact Vicki West at (512) 245-3224 or via email at vw03@txstate.edu.